Following the continuous rains in several parts of Kerala, tourists at a private resort in Idukki’s Pallivasal in Kerala, located near Munnar, have found themselves stranded after a landslide disrupted traffic in the area.

Around 30 tourists, including some foreigners, have been stranded at the resort for the past two days. The issue came to light after one of the tourists put out a video through their cab drivers seeking help.

According to reports, the resort, Plum Judy, has been functioning despite the directions from the Disaster Management Authority and the district administration.

However, tourism minister Kadakampally Surendran said that all the tourists are safe. The minister has urged the authorities to shift the tourists from Idukki to a safer place.

“The minister gave instructions to the resort owners and also spoke to the tourists who were trapped inside and assured all the possible help from the government,” a press statement said.

The road to the resort was closed because of the landslide. “All the tourists are safe. The government has asked the Army to help clear the road. Army personnel have already left for the location,” said Kadakampally.

The minister has also urged the resort management to provide food and all the other necessary amenities to the tourists for free. He has instructed that all tourists in Idukki, Munnar and the surrounding destinations be shifted to a safer place.

“The tourists will be shifted to KTDC hotels once the road is cleared,” said P Balakiran, Tourism Director.

The minister also directed that all the tourist activities in Idukki district be temporarily banned until further notice.

“Those who are in Idukki district should contact the district authorities or the tourism department if they require any help. There’s no need to panic, instead, be cautious and avoid dangerous places,” the minister said.